You need a powerful electric fence energiser for long fences, several lines, netting or animals with a thick coat. Here you will find the ZoneGuard Energizer Pro models of 50, 80 and 160 km; all three run on mains power.
Why more power than the metres suggest
The stated range is measured on a single wire without vegetation. On a large field with tall grass growth, long stretches along a ditch or a combination of wire and netting, you lose a lot along the way. A heavier energiser then still keeps a noticeable shock at the furthest point. You notice this especially with sheep in full fleece and with cattle that get used to the wire and start testing it.
Which of the three?
| Model | Suits |
|---|---|
| Energizer Pro 50 km | Several fields on one energiser, a mix of tape and wire |
| Energizer Pro 80 km | Long fences with a lot of vegetation or several nets |
| Energizer Pro 160 km | Large farms with many lines, or when you want plenty in reserve |
This breakdown is a rough guide; always take into account your own total wire length and the amount of vegetation.
Earthing grows with the energiser
A powerful energiser needs more extensive earthing: usually several earth rods, connected to each other with copper earth cable. With one rod in dry ground, much of the power is lost. Earth rods, cables and clamps are in testers and earthing materials. If you have no mains power at the field, see solar and battery energisers; for a pony paddock, a lighter energiser is often enough. The full range is under electric fence energisers.
Frequently asked questions
Is a heavier energiser more dangerous for my animals?
An electric fence energiser is made to deter with short pulses, not to injure. More power mainly means the shock holds up better over long distances; do always use the energiser according to the manual.
Can I power several fields with one energiser?
Yes, as long as the total length stays within the range. With an on/off switch, you can turn off part of the fence separately.
Do I need more earth rods for 160 km?
Usually, yes. Follow the advice in the energiser's manual for the number of earth rods.